by Deputy Diva

Previously HickTownPress has reported on the rash of noose incidents that were occurring throughout the U.S.  SOURCE and SOURCE.

Well, Governor David Paterson of New York has decided to put an end to the madness in his state yesterday, by signing an anti-noose bill into law. 

The new law makes it a felony to display a noose to threaten or harass someone.

The new law adds displaying a noose to threaten or harass someone based on racial or other types of bias to an aggravated harassment law that already includes the displaying of swastikas or burning crosses. 

Conviction carries up to four years in prison.

“It is sad that in these modern times there remains a need to address the problem of individuals who use nooses as a means of threat and intimidation,” Paterson said.

“But it is a reality and if we ignore it, we would be derelict in our duty.”

Paterson, the state’s first black governor, said the law does not go far enough and called on the Legislature to toughen it. 

CLICK HERE to read the entire article.

Go’ head Governor Paterson.  This law was long overdue! Hopefully other states will follow in NY’s footsteps and enact similar laws.